Got a chance to ride one of these a few months ago at a bike show, and I'm pretty sure I will be putting one in my garage. This thing is an absolute BLAST to ride. My last bike was a HawkGT, but after my wife came along riding solo lost some of it's amusement, and after my baby came along the reality of being bumper bait kinda sunk in. Long story short, I gave up the Hawk and it's been a few years since I've ridden, and I miss it.

When she saw the spyder, and it's passenger seat, my wife immediately said she'd love to ride one with me, and the ABS/computer/TCS etc make the ride that much safer. The thought of touring PCH on this is very alluring, and it's a HECK of a lot of fun to boot.

I've seen a lot of kvetching from 'purists' on various forums, but frankly, that type of snobbery just has no effect on me anymore... Instead of whining about something you have no experience with, BRP is being very accomodating in giving test rides. Try it, if you don't dig the 80mph snowmobile on pavement, then get back on your 2 wheel and leave the rest of us alone.

"I've seen a lot of kvetching from 'purists' on various forums, but frankly, that type of snobbery just has no effect on me anymore."

What I can't figure out is why anyone would compare this vehicle to a motorcycle to begin with. Talk about "apples and oranges." It's like comparing a 4X4 pickup to a 2 seater sports car. Why would you? You pick the one that's right for your purposes and move on.